E. Jean Carroll’s “Rape as being Sexy” Comment is Not UnWarranted. It is a Response to Rape Culture

E. Jean Carroll went on CNN Live to discuss her book and recount her alleged rape by Trump with Anderson Cooper. In the 20 second clip, Caroll is describing her memory of her rape as ‘violent’ and ‘not sexual’. When Cooper interjects with comments that most people find rape violent, Carroll rebutes: “I think most people think of rape as being sexy. Think of the fantasies.” Cooper quickly, yet politely cuts to commercial.

While some hilariously applauded Cooper’s professional judgement for a commercial break, there were of course those who demeaned Carroll’s comments as erratic and dismissive. Now on a surface level, Cooper did his professional diligence by cutting to a commercial so not to sensationalize an already shocking response. However Twitter user @xlcomedy responded with an insightful take on American’s relationship with violence and sex.

Xavier is absolutely right. 

Think about this. You cannot go onto your favorite (yes we all have favorite) porn websites without seeing categories, related or suggested videos of extreme violence against women that is offered as casual sexual pleasure. Gang rape, ultra-violent, teen, incest, extreme bondage, XXX, Hentai— these are just some of the ‘fantasies’ that Carroll is alluding to. 

Oh course porn-watching is still taboo, and the sanctity of sexual pleasure one gains from the privacy of their own laptop is their own business. However to dismiss Carroll’s comments as crazy, as if those ‘fictional’ categories are not some of the most popular content online is irresponsible and dangerous. 

Trump’s own comments regarding Carroll’s accusation is an extension of that violent fantasy. “I’ll say it with great respect: Number one, she’s not my type” is not just another blatantly insensitive comment from our President’s mouth. His response solidifies this predatory narrative by implying that only if she was attractive, would he then certainly rape her. His response is a learned and unchallenged behavior brought on by a society that refuses to acknowledge rape culture. 

Maybe instead of dismissing survivors testimonies, we could try listening without interrupting?